Phenomena - No 38 - 1998 01

Magazine Overview

Phénomèna, Bimestriel n° 38, published in 1998, is a French-language magazine dedicated to the study of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), published by SOS OVNI. The magazine's objective is to study UAP outside of dogma and sensationalism, emphasizing a rigorous and scientific approach. This issue features a cover headline focusing on new revelations about the Rendlesham Forest incident, alongside articles on UFO photography in Hungary and the Chupacabras phenomenon in Porto Rico.

Editorial: Construire sur du sable

The editorial, titled "Construire sur du sable" (Building on Sand), reflects on the Rendlesham Forest case. Initially presented as a 'perfect' close encounter involving military personnel, radar detection, and alleged official cover-ups, the investigation, led by Jenny Randles, began to uncover contradictions and embellishments. The editorial emphasizes the need for objectivity and rigor, stating that the case had to be re-examined from scratch. While Colonel Halt maintains the phenomenon was 'beyond all comprehension,' Jenny Randles admits the case has evolved. The editorial concludes that the Rendlesham case, despite its spectacularity, is less substantial than other well-documented but less sensational cases, serving as a lesson that solid conclusions cannot be built on sand.

Article: Lumières sur Rendlesham

This article by James Easton revisits the Rendlesham Forest incident of 1980, questioning if a UFO crashed in the English forest. It notes that the event was confirmed by the British Ministry of Defence and the US military, and could have become another Roswell case. Easton's work aims to shed new light on the incident.

Article: Rendlesham: new revelations

This section details the Rendlesham Forest incident, which began in 1980 near the twin RAF bases of Bentwaters and Woodbridge in Suffolk. The events of two nights became one of Great Britain's most persistent UFO mysteries. The article highlights the release of a memorandum by Lieutenant Colonel Charles Halt, commander of the military complex, to the Ministry of Defence. The memorandum described a patrol encountering a strange, glowing object in the forest, described as metallic and triangular, hovering on legs, and maneuvering through trees before disappearing. Halt also reported observing a red, sun-like light on a subsequent night, which split into multiple objects. The British Ministry of Defence initially denied having any information but later, through a Freedom of Information Act request, a copy of Halt's memorandum was located. The ministry's response, however, suggested that no further investigation was deemed necessary, citing the lack of corroborating evidence and the fact that the events fell outside US jurisdiction. The article notes discrepancies in the dates reported by Halt and mentions other potential atmospheric events occurring around the same time, such as the re-entry of a Soviet satellite.

Interview: Halt: exclusive interview

This section features an exclusive interview with Charles Hall, who was the commander of the Woodbridge-Bentwaters bases. Hall describes his involvement as an effort to 'resolve' the incident, which was distracting military police. He suggests that a discreet investigation was likely conducted jointly by British and American authorities. Hall believes the object was intelligently controlled and beyond normal human comprehension. He dismisses the hypothesis that the incident was a psychological warfare experiment. The interview also touches upon the possibility of photos or films being taken, though some were reportedly lost or 'veiled.' Hall confirms that while he was not directly informed of any specific investigation into the incident itself, his role was related to defense matters. He also mentions that while he was advised to say less, it was likely friendly advice based on his experience rather than a directive.

Other Sections and Content:

• Edito: (Page 3) Likely an introduction to the issue's content.
• Bougez avec la poste...: (Page 6) An article detailing issues with the distribution of the magazine, specifically the loss of postal bags containing copies for subscribers, leading to complaints and a legal complaint against the postal service.
• Bloc-notes: (Page 20) A section likely containing short news items or updates.
• Chupacabras Park: (Page 24) A dedicated section on the Chupacabras phenomenon.
• Chupacabras: que valent des témoignages?: (Page 28) An article questioning the credibility of Chupacabras testimonies.
• En France et dans le Monde: (Page 34) A section covering UFO events in France and globally.
• Lectures, vidéo, cd-rom: (Page 41) Reviews or listings of related media.
• Vous dites ?: (Page 42) A section for reader feedback or letters.
• En direct d'SOS OVNI: (Page 43) Updates or news from the SOS OVNI organization.
• Revue de presse: (Page 44) A review of media coverage related to UFO topics.
• Annonces: (Page 48) Advertisements.
• Grand concours: (Page 5) A contest offering a CD-ROM of "Phénomènes Inexpliqués" (Unexplained Phenomena).
• Encore un triangle observé en Gironde: (Page 40) A report on a triangular UFO sighting in Gironde, France.
• Enquête sur Roswell: décès du sénateur Steven Schiff: (Page 23) An investigation into the Roswell incident, focusing on the death of Senator Steven Schiff.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phénomèna include the Rendlesham Forest incident, the Chupacabras phenomenon, and UFO sightings. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rigorous, scientific investigation, distancing itself from sensationalism and dogma. The magazine emphasizes the importance of critical analysis, questioning official narratives, and seeking verifiable evidence. The challenges faced by researchers, including potential cover-ups and the unreliability of some testimonies, are highlighted. The publication also demonstrates a commitment to transparency, as seen in the detailed account of the postal distribution issues and the interview with Charles Hall.

Title: Phénomèna
Subtitle: la revue des phénomènes OVNI
Issue Date: 1998

This issue of Phénomèna focuses on the Rendlesham Forest incident, presenting a detailed analysis of the events, witness testimonies, and potential explanations. The magazine explores the complexities and contradictions within the case, drawing on interviews and reports from the time and subsequent years.

The Rendlesham Forest Incident: A Deep Dive

The article begins by detailing the initial reports from December 28, 1980, concerning an unidentified flying object (UFO) observed near RAF Bentwaters. Information is scarce, with radar and radio recordings from the era reportedly destroyed. A letter from RAF Watton in January 1989 confirms a report of an "OVNI observation at Bentwaters" in the UA37 sector, FL370.

The First Night's Events

Colonel Halt's account is central to the narrative. He recounts how, shortly after Christmas 1980, around 05:30 on December 26th, an officer reported an "OVNI" returning. Initially skeptical, Halt and others decided to investigate. They observed three elliptical objects, later described as round, with blue, green, and red lights exhibiting sharp, angular movements. The objects were seen in the northern sky, approximately twenty degrees away.

Penniston's Testimony and Object Characteristics

Sergeant Jim Penniston's testimony is highlighted. He describes seeing a small object, examining it for about twenty minutes, and touching its "black and smooth texture." He noted symbols on the object. Penniston states the object lifted off the ground silently, moved slowly among the trees, and then ascended rapidly, disappearing instantly. He describes the object as mechanical and seemingly under control. The object's dimensions are estimated at three meters high and three meters wide at the base. Penniston also reported seeing "writing" or symbols on the object's smooth, opaque surface, described as approximately five centimeters high and spread over sixty centimeters.

Vallée's Perspective on Military Technology

Jacques Vallée, a prominent UFO theorist, is interviewed regarding the Rendlesham incident. He suggests that the object described could correspond to holographic projection technology or "cloaking" (invisibility) rather than an extraterrestrial craft. Vallée posits that the observed phenomena might be related to advanced military camouflage technologies currently being experimented with.

The Second Night and Atmospheric Effects

The second night of the incident involved a patrol led by Greg Battrom. They observed unusual lights that disappeared. Near where the lights were seen, they found a clearing where they initially thought there might have been a fire. The patrol reported feeling static electricity, hair standing on end, and a sensation of moving in slow motion. Communications were affected, and radios malfunctioned. Battrom described a "scraping" sound and a "fog-like layer" around ground level. The patrol reportedly became frightened and retreated.

Contradictions and Evolving Narratives

The article points out significant discrepancies between early reports and later statements, particularly from Jim Penniston. His initial report described the object as metallic and triangular, but later accounts became more elaborate, including details about touching the object and seeing symbols. Penniston's later claims about seeing a lighthouse are also contrasted with his earlier statements.

The Lighthouse Hypothesis

Ian Ridpath proposes a more mundane explanation, suggesting that Colonel Halt may have been misled by the Orford Ness lighthouse and the Shipwash light vessel. The pulsing red light described by Halt is compared to the lighthouse's beam. The article notes that the lighthouse appears as a small pulsing light from a distance, not a large object emitting rays. The "eye" described by Halt, visible only with a Starlight Scope, could be an effect of light saturation.

Object Characteristics and Witness Accounts

Further analysis of witness accounts reveals inconsistencies. While some witnesses initially reported seeing only lights, later testimonies included descriptions of structured objects. The triangular ground traces found are also questioned, with their placement in a "perfect triangle" suggesting a possible fabrication or influence on the narrative. The blue lights observed are potentially explained as lights from the NSA building at Orford Ness.

The Role of Media and Hypnosis

The article touches upon the influence of media coverage, including CNN's "Unsolved Mysteries" and British documentaries, in shaping public perception of the case. Larry Warren's account, which evolved significantly over time, is presented as an example of how narratives can become embellished, possibly influenced by hypnotic regression and suggestions from others.

Scientific and Skeptical Perspectives

Jenny Randles, a UFO researcher, is cited as suggesting that the Rendlesham case may be exaggerated and that the probability of it being a genuine extraterrestrial contact case is very low. The article concludes by suggesting that rational explanations are likely, unless new developments emerge. The role of military technology, such as advanced camouflage, is presented as a plausible alternative to extraterrestrial origins.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the Rendlesham Forest incident from multiple angles, presenting witness testimonies, official reports, and skeptical analyses. The editorial stance appears to favor rational explanations, highlighting inconsistencies in witness accounts and exploring mundane possibilities like military technology or misidentification of terrestrial lights. The magazine aims to dissect the phenomenon, separating verifiable facts from speculation and embellishment, while acknowledging the enduring mystery and the impact of the event on those involved.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue Date: 1998
Document Type: Magazine

This issue of Phénomèna magazine, dated 1998, covers a range of topics related to unexplained phenomena, ufology, and fringe subjects. It features articles on the mysterious 'Chupacabras' creature, cult activities, alleged extraterrestrial encounters, and ongoing investigations into historical cases like Roswell.

Articles and Reports

Fundación Anomalia Announces 'Zurich' Prize

The Fundación Anomalia has announced the creation of the 'Zurich' prize, offering 250,000 pesetas (approximately 10,000 francs) to the author of any research work, theoretical or otherwise, that adheres to scientific objectivity and methodology. Submissions can be in English, French, or Spanish and must be received by September 1, 1998. For detailed application conditions, interested parties can write to Fundación Anomalia, Prix Zurich, Apartado de Correos 5041, 39080 Santander, Spain.

Renaissance of CRUN

The Centre de Recherche Ufologique Niçois (CRUN) is being revived under the leadership of Philippe Mazo and Eric Zurcher, known for his work on 'Humanoid Apparitions'. CRUN can be contacted at 420 av. de Pessicart, Chemin Bella-Vista, 06100 Nice, France (Tel: 06.11.52.18.49).

Annual Report on Sects Highlights Ufological Connections

The annual report from the Interministerial Observatory on Sects provides insights into the landscape of cults. It notes the emergence of over twenty new movements in two years, primarily apocalyptic and healing groups. Notably, eight new associations are identified as having ufological inspiration. The report previously listed 'L'Ecole de la Préparation à l'Evacuation Extraterrestre', 'Siderella', and the French 'Mouvement raëlien' as ufological sects.

Tenerife Police Prevent Cult Suicide

In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands, police intervened on January 8th to prevent the collective suicide of 31 members of the 'Centre Holistique Isis'. The members, primarily British and German, intended to end their lives to join 'another plane of consciousness' at the foot of the Teide volcano. The sect, led by a German 'psychologist' named Heide Fittkau-Garthe, was under investigation due to its connections with the 'Order of the Solar Temple' (OTS).

US Police Monitor Cult Activity

Following the Tenerife incident, police in the United States were alerted to a cult in Garland, Texas, named 'Eglise pour le Salut de Dieu'. Approximately 140 members of this group gathered on their leader's property, believing a flying saucer would transport them to God. The group, led by Hon-Ming Chen from Taiwan, encouraged members to commit suicide for 'retrieval by flying saucers'. Chen claimed to be the father of Jesus Christ, and that God would inhabit his body on March 31, 1998, leading to increased surveillance of the sect.

UFO Photograph from Erpatak, Hungary

On October 27, 1996, Lajos Kosina took a photograph in Erpatak, Hungary, which, upon development, revealed a circular object in the background. Analysis by the Hungarian UFO Network (HUFON) suggested the object was approximately 1200-1400 meters away. While the HUFON concluded it was an object in the sky, the magazine leaves it to the reader to decide if it was a genuine UFO or a 'hubcap' thrown in the air.

Libération's 'Call for Witnesses' Linked to FNAC Promotion

A 'call for witnesses' published by the daily newspaper Libération on November 24th, concerning a photograph taken near Santeny (Val-de-Marne) showing vegetation with biochemical alterations, was revealed to be part of a publicity campaign by FNAC, possibly in collaboration with Europe 1. The campaign involved displaying a 'flying saucer' outside FNAC stores.

American Computer Company (ACC) Accuses IBM and ATT in Roswell Case

Jack Shulman, president of the American Computer Company (ACC), has accused IBM and ATT of fraudulently diverting parts recovered by the military from the alleged 1947 Roswell UFO crash. Shulman claims these parts, including a transistor unknown at the time, were intentionally hidden. This theory echoes claims previously made by Colonel Philip Corso.

US Ufological Organizations: APRO and NICAP

The magazine notes the evolution of two prominent US ufological organizations: APRO (Aerial Phenomena Research Organisation) and NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena). While NICAP has become a website managed by Francis Ridge, APRO, under Bill Heft, has adopted unusual recruitment methods, requiring members to wear specific uniforms for their investigations.

MUFON Official Arrested, Revealed as Scientologist

The MUFON, a major ufological association, is highlighted due to recent events. Its representative for Puerto Rico was arrested for weapons possession. Additionally, Jon Spear, the MUFON representative for Tennessee, was discovered to be a member of the Church of Scientology after his death. Spear reportedly believed he had been abducted by extraterrestrials and sought to apply Scientology principles to this belief.

Hessdalen Project Continues with 'Hexagon 98'

The Hessdalen Project, which began in the early 1980s to study unexplained lights in a Norwegian valley, is ongoing. The 'Hexagon 98' campaign, a fully internet-based initiative, will deploy sensors and cameras to gather data in real-time. Interested individuals can register via email to receive updates.

Death of Jun-Ichi Takanashi, Japanese Ufology Pioneer

Jun-Ichi Takanashi, a pioneer in Japanese ufology, passed away on October 18, 1997. He founded the Modern Space Flight Association (MSFA) in 1956, which later became the Japan UFO Science Society (JUFOS) in 1983.

Death of Senator Steven Schiff

Senator Steven Schiff, who played a significant role in the official investigation into the Roswell incident, died at the age of 51 on March 25th. Schiff had pressed authorities for transparency regarding Roswell and had officially requested the General Accounting Office (GAO) to seek explanations from the US Air Force. The GAO subsequently published a report, largely descriptive, denying any extraterrestrial involvement.

Chupacabras Phenomenon in Puerto Rico

The article extensively details the 'Chupacabras' phenomenon, which began to gain attention in Puerto Rico around 1995. The creature is described as a meter-tall biped with claws, large eyes, and sharp teeth, known for draining the blood of animals. The narrative suggests a cover-up by Puerto Rican authorities and a US federal agency, involving mysterious agents in black 4x4 vehicles to retrieve specimens and manage information. The case of Fred Acevedo Martinez, allegedly murdered for taking a 'Chupacabras' fetus from a military base, is presented as a key incident.

The 'Chupacabras Scenario' Explained

Ufologist Jorge Martin is credited with popularizing the Chupacabras scenario. He posits that the creature is either extraterrestrial or the result of a genetic experiment gone wrong. Martin claims that authorities are complicit in hiding the creature's existence and that agents are tasked with retrieving victims and discrediting witnesses. The article notes the involvement of a veterinarian, Carlos Soto, who examined a 'fetus' and could not identify it as animal or human.

Puerto Rico's Relationship with the US and the Chupacabras

The article touches upon Puerto Rico's complex relationship with the United States, its status as an 'Associated Free State', and local sentiments regarding American influence. It suggests that the Chupacabras phenomenon might be linked to past US government experiments on the island.

'Animal Mysteries' in France and the US

The magazine draws parallels between the Chupacabras phenomenon and similar 'animal mystery' cases in France and the United States, such as cattle mutilations that occurred in the US starting in 1973. These cases often involve unexplained deaths of animals, with theories ranging from natural predators to extraterrestrial involvement. The article mentions instances of alleged sightings of bears, pumas, and panthers in France, which were never definitively identified or captured.

The 'Ghost Hitchhiker' Rumor

The article also discusses the 'Dame blanche' (Ghost Hitchhiker) rumor, a widespread legend in France about a female ghost who appears to motorists. The magazine notes that while the Plougastel case, which gained significant media attention, lacked direct witnesses, similar stories have circulated for decades, evolving with modern transportation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phénomèna maintains its focus on unexplained phenomena, cryptozoology, and alleged government cover-ups. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories while encouraging readers to form their own conclusions. The magazine highlights the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate events, such as cult activities and UFO reports, and emphasizes the role of media and official investigations in shaping public perception. The recurring theme of 'animal mysteries' and their potential links to extraterrestrial or unknown origins is a prominent thread throughout the issue.

Phénomèna - Issue 38 (1998)

This issue of Phénomèna, a French magazine dedicated to UFO phenomena, delves into various aspects of the unexplained, with a significant focus on animal mutilation cases, the Chupacabras legend, and a wide array of global UFO sightings. The magazine also includes reviews of books and videos related to paranormal topics.

Rural Rumors and the Chupacabras

The lead article explores the phenomenon of 'rural rumors,' drawing parallels between cases of livestock mutilation and the Chupacabras legend. It presents a comparative table highlighting commonalities between these reports, suggesting that while comparison is not proof, the existence of these rural rumors is undeniable. The article questions how specialists might misinterpret injuries caused by common animals as the work of unknown monsters, referencing instances in France where dog bites have been mistaken for feline attacks. It also touches upon the possibility that these reports might be used to express anti-American sentiments, particularly in the context of Puerto Rico.

The article contrasts the Chupacabras phenomenon with the plot of the movie 'Jurassic Park,' noting the thematic similarities of genetically engineered creatures escaping and causing havoc. It suggests that the origin of such phenomena is not always straightforward and can be influenced by psychological and sociological factors, including potential confusions and the interests of those who propagate rumors.

Global UFO Sightings

The magazine features a comprehensive section detailing numerous UFO sightings from around the world, categorized by region:

France

• Augisey (Jura): Seven luminous points, orange with white flashes, observed moving horizontally.
• Troyes (Aube): A silver, cylindrical object hovered before disappearing rapidly to the southeast.
• Paris: A green, phosphorescent diamond-shaped object was observed before disappearing.

Europe

• Italy (Syracuse, Sicily): Photographs were taken of a disc-shaped object moving erratically.
• Italy (Terni): An object described as a white, arched shape moved rapidly across the sky.
• United Kingdom (Yorkshire): A large, dark, effilated vehicle with a bright point was observed moving slowly.

Americas

• USA (Arizona): Reports of orange lights and giant triangles were frequent.
• USA (Texas): A cylindrical object was observed hovering vertically before disappearing.
• USA (California): Two witnesses observed a large, triangular object with multiple lights.
• USA (Georgia): A triangular object with five orange lights was observed moving slowly.
• USA (Pennsylvania): A large, dark grey triangular object with red and white lights was seen.
• Canada (Quebec): A triangular object with blue lights was observed.
• Mexico (Chihuahua): A large, dark, triangular object with blue lights was observed.
• Colombia (Bogota): A luminous, triangular object was observed.
• Brazil (Rio de Janeiro): A large, dark, triangular object with blue lights was observed.

Asia

• China (Canton): Hundreds of workers observed an oblong object with portholes and a light beam.

Oceania

• Tasmania (Devonport): Two luminous triangular objects were observed.

Special Features and Reviews

Triangle at Low Altitude

A detailed account of a triangular object observed at low altitude in Pessac, France, on August 24, 1997. The witness described two series of lights (blue and red) and compared the object's shape to a stealth aircraft. The analysis includes calculations of the object's size, speed, and altitude based on witness testimony.

Book and Video Reviews

• 'Le Débat sur le Paranormal': A review of a dossier published by La Documentation Française, which covers political and social issues related to the paranormal. The review is critical, noting the inclusion of contradictory viewpoints and a lack of critical analysis, particularly regarding cults.
• 'OVNI: Les visiteurs venus de l'espace': A review of a video cassette from Atlas, which presents a panorama of UFO phenomena, including common themes like alien contact, crop circles, and animal mutilations. The review expresses disappointment with the lack of critical perspective and the heavy reliance on extraterrestrial hypotheses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents a wide range of UFO sightings and paranormal phenomena from around the globe. While it reports on witness testimonies and provides some technical details, there's an underlying theme of questioning the nature of these events, exploring both potential explanations (natural phenomena, misidentifications) and more extraordinary hypotheses (extraterrestrial origins). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting data and analysis without definitively endorsing any single explanation, though the inclusion of reviews critical of certain paranormal literature suggests a desire for a degree of critical engagement. The magazine also highlights the importance of witness testimony while acknowledging its inherent uncertainties and fragilities.

This issue of Phénomèna, dated 1998, is a French-language magazine dedicated to UFO phenomena. It features a variety of articles, reviews, and reader contributions, covering books, multimedia products, and specific UFO cases.

Book and Media Reviews

The UFO Book - Encyclopedia of the Extraterrestrial

Reviewed by Bruno Bousquet, this book by Jerome Clark is described as a comprehensive encyclopedia of UFOs, covering topics from alleged alien abductions to radar-optical cases. While it offers a clear presentation and includes a chronology, bibliography, and index, it is noted to be primarily focused on American ufology, though it does offer a European perspective. The reviewer suggests it's a valuable resource for enthusiasts who can read English, especially given its affordable price of $19.95 in the US.

Diccionario Temático de Ufología (DTU)

This is another encyclopedic dictionary of ufology, published in Spain by Fundacion Anomalia. It contains 412 pages and is noted for its European focus, with entries like 'Abduction' and 'Zona Caliente'. The review points out some organizational issues, such as the address for 'Anomalies' being used instead of 'SOS OVNI' for a specific entry, and the lack of an index making it somewhat cumbersome.

Phénomènes Inexpliqués CD-ROM

Alsyd Multimédia has released a CD-ROM titled 'Phénomènes Inexpliqués'. It contains 500 pages of content divided into categories such as 'Strange Phenomena', 'Beyond Science', 'Mysteries of the Earth', 'UFOs and Ufology', and 'Mysterious Beings'. The information was compiled by researchers John and Anne Spencer. The CD-ROM is praised for its user-friendly interface, allowing easy navigation through chapters, and the inclusion of features like image printing. However, the review notes a weakness in its database of addresses and internet sites.

Articles and Features

UFOs in Spain

The magazine notes the growing number of ufological bulletins and magazines published in Spain, with 'Espacio Compartido' being highlighted. This publication, previously existing under a different name, focuses on the extraterrestrial hypothesis and features articles on research and infrared UFO photography.

Fate Magazine (USA)

'Fate' is recognized as one of the oldest magazines dedicated to the paranormal and UFOs, with its first issue dating back to spring 1948. The review mentions its coverage of various UFO-related topics and its long-standing contribution to the field.

Fortean Times (UK)

'Fortean Times' is described as a 'must-read' for those interested in the strange. The magazine is praised for its pleasant presentation and the quality of its authors. A specific issue (No. 108, March 1998) is mentioned for its report on a possible meteorite impact in Greenland and its extensive coverage of paranormal and unusual events.

UFO Historical Revue (USA)

This publication, formerly 'Juste Cause', is now under the direction of Barry Greenwood. It aims to provide a rational approach to UFO research, distinct from conspiracy theories. The review details the organizational changes and the shift in focus, noting that some in the ufological community viewed these changes as a betrayal.

UFO-related Publications

The magazine lists numerous other UFO-related publications from various countries, including Hungary, Germany, Italy, France, the USA, and Great Britain, providing their issue numbers and dates.

Sisteron Case (1972)

An article investigates the events near Sisteron on March 18, 1972, questioning whether it was a spaceship crash or a misunderstanding. The investigation involved procedures against the Ministry of Defense.

The Circles Effect and its Mysteries

This section reviews a 1990 book by G.T. Meaden that explores the phenomenon of crop circles, offering a scientific and meteorological modeling approach with illustrations.

Actes des Rencontres Européennes de Lyon

The magazine highlights the proceedings of the European UFO Encounters organized by SOS OVNI since 1987. It mentions that some of these proceedings, published annually, are still available, covering topics like biophysical quantification of UFO effects, case studies, and the ufological situation in various countries.

UFOs in France

'Génération Séries' is presented not as a ufology magazine but as one that covers UFO-related television series like 'Dark Skies' and 'X-Files'. It provides information on episodes, actors, and fan clubs.

OVNI de Metz: Lune ou parasélène?

This article addresses reader inquiries about a UFO sighting in Metz, which was reported in the local newspaper as a potential lunar eclipse or paraselene. The piece discusses astronomical data and the possibility of misinterpretation.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters from readers are included. One reader questions the accuracy of an IGN photo used in a previous issue, suggesting it might be from a different source. Another reader comments on the use of quotation marks and the magazine's layout. A third letter discusses the possibility of computer-generated effects in UFO photographs, referencing the 'AVID' system.

General Documentation Service

This section offers various documents and publications for sale, including a report on the Sisteron case, a book on crop circles, and collections of press clippings on UFO sightings and events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rational and investigative approach to ufology, emphasizing critical analysis and the verification of information. It encourages reader participation through letters and research requests. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking to understand UFO phenomena through scientific and historical research, while also acknowledging the complexities and potential for misinterpretation. There is a clear effort to provide comprehensive information on books, events, and ongoing research within the ufological community.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue Date: 1998
Focus: The magazine is dedicated to UFOs and related phenomena, with this issue particularly highlighting the 50th anniversary of the 'flying saucer' era.

Content Summary

Announcements and Services

The magazine opens with several classified ads and personal services related to ufology. These include:

• Contact Information: Individuals offering their services for research, legal advice on UFO-related matters, or seeking correspondents for UFO study groups. Contact details like phone numbers, fax, and email addresses are provided.
• Document Exchange: A request to exchange ufological documents for sound recordings of UFOs or cosmic noises.
• Advertising: A service offering colored, framed advertisements for 100 francs to help individuals stand out.
• URANE DÉMÉNAGE: A moving service with contact information and a website.

Upcoming Events

A significant section is dedicated to "Manifestations à venir" (Upcoming Events), listing several international UFO conferences and symposia:

• May 30-31: National UFO Study Center Congress in Florence, Italy, organized by CISU.
• June 20-21: London UFO Conference in London, Great Britain, organized by Quest International.
• June 26-28: MUFON 1998 International UFO Symposium in Denver, USA.
• July 3-5: Roswell Days in Roswell, New Mexico, USA, organized by the International UFO Museum & Research Center.
• July 10-12: Canadian UFO Conference in St-Paul, Alberta, Canada.

Information on how to submit event programs to SOS OVNI via mail, fax, or email is also provided.

Special Publications and Offers

• Mystères en Pays d'Oc: A catalog of UFO sightings in the Hérault department is available for 120 FF (plus postage) for the first edition (A4 format). Contact Bruno Bousquet.
• Souvenirs d'un pionnier: A publication by Henri Chaloupek, available for 60 FF (plus postage).
• Phénomèna Special Issue: A special issue titled "TAMB DISPONIBLE" (Available Now) is offered, covering ufology from its origins to the present day for 33 FF + 5 FF (postage).

Software and Hardware Information

• A mention of "Mac LC / Claris Works 2.0 1993" with memory details and software, possibly related to data management for UFO research.

Advertisements and Subscriptions

• Phénomèna Magazine Subscription: A prominent advertisement encourages readers to subscribe to Phénomèna for one year (6 issues) for 150 FF (180 FF for abroad). Subscription details and payment instructions are provided.
• Professional Listings: An invitation for professionals to be listed in the magazine, with a contact number.

Back Issues Catalog

Page 3 features a comprehensive catalog of "Anciens numéros de Phénomèna" (Old issues of Phénomèna), listing numerous issues from number 15 to 36, with brief descriptions of their contents. Readers can order these back issues by checking boxes and sending the order with payment to the magazine's address. Prices for single issues and sets are detailed, along with postage costs.

Notable past issues highlighted include:

• Numéro 15: UFO crashes, the Ummo case.
• Numéro 18: UFOs in Provence, the Antonio Villas Boas case.
• Numéro 20: Strange phenomena in Colorado, the Willamette Pass photo.
• Numéro 21: Stars and UFOs, Belgian UFO wave, ground traces.
• Numéro 22: Mars, UFO filmed in Normandy, phantom rockets.
• Numéro 23: Object photographed in Scotland, Tehran UFO incident, crop circles.
• Numéro 25: UFO trials, the Ummo case revisited.
• Numéro 26: UFO wave in Sao Paulo, photos from Portugal, ancient extraterrestrials.
• Numéro 27: 'Autopsy' evidence, interview with John Mack.
• Numéro 28: Valentich case, US Air Force saucers, quasi-collision in Argentina.
• Numéro 29: Special 'autopsy' issue, medical opinions.
• Numéro 30: UFO phenomenon filmed in South Korea, humanoid in Belgium.
• Numéro 31: Puerto Rico, UFOs in Brazil, Asian sightings.
• Numéro 33: Life on Mars, Belgian sightings, UFO crash in Brazil.
• Numéro 35: Special issue 'Flying Saucers Are 50 Years Old', early UFOs, anniversaries.
• Numéro 36: Pentagon and Roswell, interview with Francois Louange.

Cover Feature

The cover prominently features the headline "LES SOUPES VOLANTES ONT 50 ANS" (Flying Saucers Are 50 Years Old), indicating a focus on the historical significance and anniversary of the modern UFO era, likely referencing the Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers a wide range of UFO-related topics, including sightings, alleged extraterrestrial encounters, historical cases, scientific investigations, and personal testimonies. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, providing a platform for researchers, witnesses, and organizations like SOS OVNI to share information and discuss theories. The emphasis on upcoming events and the availability of back issues suggests a commitment to ongoing coverage and archival of UFO-related information.